Rawalpindi traffic worsened this week as road closures for the Pakistan-South Africa cricket matches caused massive inconvenience for citizens. Residents of Rawalpindi and commuters between the twin cities faced severe disruptions due to blocked routes around the Rawalpindi Cricket Stadium.
Authorities closed Murree Road, Double Road, and nearby streets under a special traffic plan. Metro bus services near Double Road were also suspended during team movements, forcing vehicles to divert. Despite the deployment of additional police and traffic wardens, jams spread through downtown areas, especially in the evening.
READ MORE:Traffic plan issued for Pakistan-South Africa cricket matches in Rawalpindi
Long queues formed on Faizabad, Islamabad Expressway, and Rawal Road, trapping commuters for hours. Many taxi drivers refused to operate near Murree Road due to the chaos. People were seen walking long distances as public transport became unavailable. Residents complained they were confined to their homes because of continuous road closures.
Locals described how alternate routes offered no relief, as diversions only shifted congestion elsewhere. Some reported difficulty reaching schools and workplaces. “We face this trouble every time there’s a match,” said a resident, expressing frustration over poor planning and coordination by the authorities.
READ MORE:Pakistan’s blind cricket team matches shifted to Colombo
Meanwhile, traders demanded shifting the cricket stadium outside the city, claiming their businesses suffer whenever major matches occur. They criticized officials for forcing shop closures along Murree and Double Roads. The Rawalpindi traffic issue has now turned public excitement for cricket into growing anger over poor urban management.